Get off the couch and get involved in municipal politics.
That’s the message a joint committee from Dalhousie University and the provincial government is bringing to Halifax this evening.
Jack Novack, a Dalhousie professor and expert in municipal politics and council-staff relations, says his disappointment in the level of public participation inspired him to help launch the project.
“People tend to be more interested in watching TV and computer screens than getting out of their houses and doing something for the community,” he said.
As a result, voter turnout is low, many elections across the province are acclaimed, and too few women and youth run for office, Novack said.
The municipal recruitment program has also made stops in Bridgewater, Annapolis County, Yarmouth, Wolfville, New Glasgow, Port Hawkesbury and Sydney in the run-up to the upcoming local elections in October.
Tonight’s session, which is being held at the Halifax North Memorial Public Library between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., will include information on Nova Scotia politics, election campaigns, opportunities for community involvement and the salaries of Halifax regional councillors.
Novack says despite modest attendance at recruitment sessions across the province thus far, he has been pleased with the motivation he’s seen.
